The Dystopian

Society

Utopia Definition:

A place, state, or condition that is ideally perfect in respects of politics, laws, customs and traditions.

Many Dystopias start out as someone else’s ideal society.

Many can argue that the United States of America is founded on Utopian principles.

Dystopia Definition:

A futuristic imagined universe in which oppressive societal control and the illusion of a perfect society are maintained through corporate, bureaucratic, technological, philosophical/religious or totalitarian control.

Dystopias, though exaggerated, make criticisms about current trends, social norms, and politics.

Characteristics of the Dystopian Society1. The society is promoted to the citizens

as being a perfect utopian world.

2. Propaganda is used to control citizens

3. Information, freedom, and independent thought are restricted.

Characteristics of the Dystopian Society4. A figurehead and/or concept is

worshipped by society.

5. Conformity is expected. Individuality and dissent is bad.

6. The natural world is banished and distrusted.

Characteristics of the Dystopian Society7. Citizens have a fear of the outside

world.

8. Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance.

9. Citizens live in a dehumanized state.

Forms of Dystopian Controls Corporate Control:

One or more large corporations control society through products, advertising and/or the media.

Bureaucratic Control: Society is controlled by a mindless

bureaucracy through a tangle of red tape, relentless regulations, and incompetent government officials.

Forms of Dystopian Controls Technological Control:

Society is controlled by technology through computers, robots and/or scientific means.

Philosophical/Religious Control: Society is controlled by philosophy or

religious ideals often times through a dictatorship or theocratic government.

The Dystopian ProtagonistCharacteristics:

1. Feels trapped and is trying to escape society’s oppressive forces

2. Questions social and political rules

The Dystopian Protagonist

3. Believes and feels that something is terribly wrong with their society

4. Helps the audience to seewhat is wrong with societythrough their experiences